Celtics suspend Sullinger for opener

The Boston Celtics announced Tuesday that they have suspended forward Jared Sullinger one game for his role in an incident that occurred on August 31, 2013. The suspension will be served during the team's season opener at Toronto Wednesday night.

The Boston Celtics announced Tuesday that they have suspended forward Jared Sullinger one game for his role in an incident that occurred on August 31, 2013. The suspension will be served during the team's season opener at Toronto Wednesday night.

"Jared's case was dismissed yesterday in Waltham District Court," said Celtics President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge. "While we are satisfied that this was the correct ruling, we are suspending Jared for one game because he failed to meet the high expectations we have for all Celtics employees."

Sullinger faced charges of assault and battery, destruction of property, and witness intimidation in connection with a Aug. 31 confrontation with his girlfriend. The woman accused Sullinger of pinning her to a bed and the floor at his Waltham home. On Sept. 3, Sullinger pleaded not guilty and was released on $5,000 bail.

Sullinger appeared in 45 games for the Celtics as a rookie last season and was elevated to a starter's role before a back injury ended his season in late January. After rehabbing for much of the summer, the 21-year-old is seen as a major piece of the team's frontcourt this season.